AAR Repairman

Harbor Rail Services; Benicia (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Harbor Rail Services is seeking an AAR Repairman to inspect and repair railcars in accordance with AAR and FRA standards. You will identify and fix structural issues, air leaks, and mechanical defects while documenting inspections and repairs for management review.

The role emphasizes safe work practices, accurate reporting, and teamwork to maintain efficient operations at our Benicia, CA location. A valid driver’s license is required, with overtime and weekend shifts possible.

Qualifications

• Must have strong analytical skills and the ability to read technical documents.
• Fluent English communication is required for documentation and coordination.
• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Welding, torch cutting, grinding, metal fabrication, and tool operation experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and repairs to meet all regulatory standards.
• Operate equipment safely to perform job duties.
• Prepare railcars for service by performing pre- and post-repair inspections.
• Accurately complete repair reports and maintain records.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and health policies.
• Coordinate with team members to meet location operational goals.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Read technical documents

Fluent English

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Power tools

Welder machines

Air compressors

Oxy torch

Forklift driving

Job description

COMPANY:

Harbor Rail Services has been in the railroad business for 35 years, operating 50 locations nationwide, and is a leading provider of railcar maintenance and repair services. The company is committed to the training and development of its employees, offering competitive compensation, benefits packages, and growth opportunities. Safety is the first priority, supported by strong leadership and rigorous safety standards.

POSITION:

AAR Repairman

REPORTS TO:

Location Supervisor/Manager

JOB TYPE:

Full-Time

JOB SUMMARY:

The AAR Repairperson is responsible for conducting detailed inspections and repairs of railcars in compliance with AAR (Association of American Railroads) standards. Tasks include:

• Conducting railcar inspections following AAR, FRA, and Harbor Rail Services standards
• Identifying and repairing structural damage, air leaks, and mechanical defects
• Utilizing appropriate tools and materials for repair tasks
• Documenting all inspections and repairs accurately
• Communicating repair status and issues to management
• Ensuring a safe work environment by adhering to safety protocols

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct inspections and repairs to meet all regulatory standards
• Operate various equipment to perform job duties safely
• Prepare railcars for service by performing pre- and post-repair inspections
• Accurately complete repair reports and maintain records
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and health policies
• Coordinate with team members to meet location operational goals
• Manage inventory and tools necessary for repair tasks
• Perform special projects as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Must meet all physical requirements and be able to follow directions.

• Must be familiar with different types of tools; power tools, welder machines, air compressors, oxy torch, etc.
• Welding, torch cutting, grinding, metal fabrication, forklift driving, material inventory, leaf blowers, etc.
• Certified welders preferred and must be able to pass a welders qualification test within 2 months of employment.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience in railcar inspection, maintenance, or a related field preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Basic analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to solve problems.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate in English fluently and professionally.
• Valid driver’s license required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be on feet 66% to 100% of the time
• Frequent physical activities include bending, squatting, and using hand tools

VISION REQUIREMENTS

• Constantly observe areas that need attention/correction.
• Ability to differentiate common railroad signaling colors (red, green, yellow, and blue).

HEARING REQUIREMENTS

• Essential: Must be able to hear clearly and accurately to receive verbal instructions and to maintain awareness of surroundings, ensuring safety in an active railyard environment.

SPEAKING REQUIREMENTS

• Constant need to verbally communicate with staff, partners, and vendors.

LIFTING/CARRYING

• 25-75 lbs. occasionally (1%-50% of the time)
• Assistance available for lifting over 50 lbs.

WORK HOURS

40 hours per week; weekend or overtime work may be required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma required
• Minimum 1 years of experience in railcar repair and AAR standards

SKILLS

• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to read technical documents

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Mostly outdoors (66%-100% of the time)
• May require travel and walking in noisy, uneven areas

BENEFITS

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

SCHEDULE

• Holidays
• Monday to Friday, must be able to work flexible shifts including weekends and holidays
• On-call

LICENSE/REGISTRATION

Driver's License (Preferred)

WORK LOCATION

In person

Job Details

Job DetailsJob Location: 94 BENICIA - BENICIA, CA 94510Salary Range: $23.00 - $30.00 HourlyJob Shift: Any

EEO STATEMENT

Harbor Rail Services is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for available positions without regard to race, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, sexual expression, gender expression, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

DISCLAIMER

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.